Mimi started the AI process today!

Today was the start of a new farm learning experience for us! The boys and I wrangled Mimi into the stanchion to start her artificial insemination (AI) process. We started plenty early in case she wasn't cooperative. It went quicker than we thought it might, so we ended up having to put up a makeshift shade to keep her out of the sun.

Mimi was first checked via ultrasound to make sure she wasn't pregnant. I was a bit suspicious as she kept getting fatter and fatter, but she's not pregnant. Next she got a shot that will bring her into heat within the next few days. She was not a fan of the shot. Lastly, she got a patch over her tail that will change color if/when the other cows jump up on her. They usually jump on each other when they are in heat, so this patch saves me from having to watch them all day long!

Once she's ready to be bred, part two of this process will begin. Stay tuned! Can you spot the three spectators in the background??

Meet Doug: Our Loyal Livestock Guardian Dog

There’s a new guardian on the farm, and his name is Doug! Doug is our Maremma Sheepdog, a breed known for its unwavering dedication to protecting livestock. While he may be big and fluffy, make no mistake—he takes his job very seriously. His mission? To guard our goats from predators and keep the farm safe.

Maremmas have been used for centuries to protect flocks from threats like coyotes, mountain lions, and stray dogs. Doug watches over our goats day and night, always on high alert. He blends in seamlessly with the herd, forming strong bonds with them and ensuring they feel secure. But while he’s all business when it comes to predators, he’s nothing but sweet and gentle with us.

Doug has already proven himself as a dedicated guardian, and we couldn’t be more grateful to have him on the farm. Whether he’s patrolling the pasture, keeping an eye on the mischievous “Goat Mafia,” or enjoying some well-earned belly rubs, Doug is an irreplaceable part of our team. Welcome to the farm, Doug! 🐶💛

Welcome to the Farm, Nugget!

A new baby joined our farm today! 🥰 Gracie had her calf, and he’s a handsome little dun-colored bull calf. From the moment he arrived, he’s been strong, nursing well, and full of energy. In fact, he’s already bouncing around—much to Gracie’s frustration! She keeps trying to keep him close, but this little guy is full of curiosity.

We’ve decided to name him Nugget, and he’s already stealing our hearts. He’s friendly, playful, and settling in perfectly. We can’t wait to watch him grow! 💛🐂

The Goat Mafia vs. Doug: A Barnyard Standoff

Life on our little farm is never boring, especially when you have a gang of mischievous goats who think they run the place. Meet the "Goat Mafia"—Dot and her two kids, Sparky and Bad Ann. They strut around with an air of entitlement, inspecting everything, causing trouble, and generally making sure we all know who’s in charge.

But there’s one member of the farm they still haven’t quite figured out: Doug, our Maremma Livestock Guardian Dog. Doug is a gentle giant, fiercely protective of his herd, yet sweet as can be with us. He takes his job seriously—watching over the goats and keeping them safe. But lately, he’s had another job added to his list: defending his dinner.

For the past few days, Bad Ann—true to her name—has been sneaking over at mealtime, trying to steal a taste of Doug’s food. Of course, I don’t allow that. But tonight, she upped her game. Instead of coming alone, she brought backup—the whole Goat Mafia!

I turned around to see the three of them marching in formation, straight toward Doug’s food bowl. It was a full-on heist attempt! Poor Doug just doubled down, eating faster!  I had to step in, holding back the pushy little gangsters so Doug could eat in peace.

Farm life sure keeps you on your toes, and with this crew, there’s never a dull moment! 

Why Homesteaders & Small-Scale Farmers Should Join the ADCA

If you’re a homesteader or backyard cattle breeder, raising Dexter cattle is a smart, sustainable choice. These small, hardy cattle provide milk, meat, and even draft power, making them ideal for small farms. But to get the most from your herd, joining the American Dexter Cattle Association (ADCA) offers valuable benefits that help you succeed.

1. Access to Quality Bloodlines & Registration

For homesteaders looking to improve their herd or start with registered Dexters, the ADCA provides an official registry and pedigree tracking. This ensures you’re getting cattle with known lineage, helping maintain healthy, productive genetics.

2. Education & Support for Sustainable Farming

The ADCA provides educational resources on topics like:
✅ Grass-fed Dexter beef production
✅ Home dairy milking & calf-rearing
✅ Rotational grazing & regenerative farming
✅ Natural herd health & genetics

If you’re new to cattle, having access to experienced breeders and practical how-to guides makes a huge difference!

3. Community & Networking with Like-Minded Farmers

Homesteading can sometimes feel isolating, but through ADCA membership, you can connect with other small farmers who share your passion for Dexters. Whether through local ADCA chapters, events, or online discussions, you’ll find support, mentorship, and even opportunities to buy or sell cattle.

4. Sell & Promote Your Dexters Easily

Thinking about selling calves or breeding stock? ADCA members can list cattle on the official ADCA Marketplace, reaching buyers who value registered, quality Dexters. This makes selling easier and often more profitable.

5. Helping Preserve the Dexter Breed

Dexters are perfect for small farms—efficient, gentle, and dual-purpose. By joining the ADCA, you’re supporting breed preservation efforts, ensuring Dexters remain a viable option for future generations of homesteaders.

Join the ADCA Today!

Whether you're raising Dexters for milk, meat, or self-sufficiency, the ADCA gives you the tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive. Visit www.dextercattle.org to learn more and become a member today!

For homesteaders and small-scale farmers, Dexter cattle offer the perfect combination of efficiency, versatility, and manageability. By becoming a member of the ADCA, you not only gain access to essential resources and a supportive community, but you also contribute to preserving this amazing breed for future generations. Whether you're just starting or have years of experience, the ADCA is here to help you make the most of your Dexter herd.

Getting Ready for Spring on the Farm: A Seasonal Checklist

Here in Central California, spring is definitely on the way.  As the days get longer and the weather starts to warm, springtime on the farm brings a sense of renewal and excitement. After the cold winter months, it's time to get back in gear and prepare for the busy season ahead. Whether you're growing crops or caring for livestock, here's a quick guide to help you get your farm ready for spring.

1. Inspect Your Equipment

Before the hustle of planting and animal care kicks into full gear, give your farm equipment a thorough checkup. From tractors to tillers, make sure everything is in working order. Sharpen blades, check tires, and replace any worn-out parts to avoid any setbacks when the work starts piling up.

2. Prep the Soil

Spring planting is just around the corner, so it's time to get the soil ready. Start by testing the soil's pH and nutrient levels. Add compost, organic matter, or fertilizers where needed. If you’re planning on planting early crops like peas or spinach, till the soil to loosen it up, and make sure it's free of weeds.

3. Clean and Repair Animal Housing

If you have livestock, spring is the perfect time to give your barns, coops, and pens a good cleaning. Remove old bedding, sanitize feeding equipment, and repair any damage caused by winter weather. Keeping the animals’ homes clean and comfortable ensures their health as they move into the new season.

4. Start Seeds Indoors

Spring planting doesn’t always have to wait for the last frost. Many crops, like tomatoes, peppers, and herbs, can be started indoors weeks ahead of time. Set up a space for your seed trays and keep them in a warm, sunny spot to encourage germination. By the time the ground is ready, your seedlings will be strong and ready to go.

5. Check Your Irrigation System

Spring can bring unpredictable weather, so having an efficient irrigation system in place is key. Check your hoses, sprinklers, and irrigation lines for leaks or clogs. This will ensure that when the heat hits, your plants will have all the water they need to thrive.

6. Prepare for Baby Animals

Spring is the time for new life on the farm, whether it’s kids, calves, or chicks. Be sure you have the proper facilities ready for any new arrivals. This might include clean bedding, heating lamps for warmth, or separate pens to keep newborns safe and sound.

7. Plan Your Spring Plantings

Take a moment to plan your garden and field layout for the season. Whether you’re growing a small garden or large fields, it helps to have a strategy for crop rotation, spacing, and companion planting. This is also the time to start ordering seeds and seedlings so you’re ready to plant as soon as the soil is warm enough.

8. Stay Ahead of Weeds and Pests

Springtime brings new growth, and with it, a fresh crop of weeds and pests. Be ready with your weed control strategy—whether that’s mulching, using organic herbicides, or hand-pulling. Keep an eye out for any pests that might want to feast on your plants or animals, and act quickly if you notice any issues.

Spring on the farm is always a busy time, but with some preparation, you can make sure you're set for a successful season. By getting organized and staying on top of tasks, you'll be ready to tackle the new growth, fresh arrivals, and all the joys that come with spring. Happy farming!

The Creamiest Homemade Goat Milk Ice Cream You’ll Ever Taste

If you’ve never tried homemade goat milk ice cream, you’re in for a treat! Made with fresh, raw goat milk from Nigerian Dwarf goats, this ice cream is incredibly creamy, rich, and smooth, thanks to the high butterfat content of the milk. The natural sweetness of the milk combined with a touch of granulated sugar creates the perfect balance, making it a delightful homemade dessert everyone will love.

The best part? It’s so simple to make. All you need is just three ingredients:

3 cups raw goat milk

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Start by mixing your ingredients together in a bowl with a whisk, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and follow your machine’s freezing instructions. You can enjoy it right away as a soft ice cream or freeze it for at least 2 hours for a deliciously creamy, hard ice cream treat.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is the rich, fresh taste of the raw milk. The high butterfat from Nigerian Dwarf goats adds an unbeatable creaminess that will make you wonder why you ever bought store-bought ice cream. Whether you’re enjoying a scoop after dinner or sharing with friends, this homemade goat milk ice cream is sure to impress!